The problem
Vehicle description: trucks equipped with drag link assemblies containing 24-dl model ball sockets and manufactured by trw. Certain of the tie rod ball-socket bearings have a below-specification case depth and/or hardness, which can lead to premature wear of the socket.
The risk
If this condition occurs, the driver can lose partial control of the right front wheel, possibly resulting in a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the defective drag links. Owner notification began June 12, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673 or trw customer service at 1-866-280-3287.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 01V044011 (01V044011) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 01S17 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Steering › Linkages › Drag › Link › Connection |
| Report date | May 11, 2001 |
| Owners notified | June 12, 2001 |
| Vehicles affected | 4,101 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Plus 2 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the steering
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 01V044011 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the defective drag links. Owner notification began June 12, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford at…
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 4,101 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.